Last Updated on December 26, 2024, 2:52 AM AST by Anthony Morris
St Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew extended heartfelt greetings and delivered an address to the people of St Kitts and Nevis and beyond on the joyous occasion of Christmas 2024.
The government of St Kitts and Nevis shared a video of the Prime Minister’s address where he reflected upon the festival of Christmas and the values that it brings along every year.
As the gentle sounds of Christmas carols fill the air and festive lights brighten every corner of the federation, PM Drew expressed his joy in extending warm greetings to every citizen and resident of St Kitts and Nevis. He noted that Christmas is a season that reminds of the values that binds a nation: compassion, togetherness and an unshakable belief in a brighter tomorrow.
PM Drew shed light on the fact that whether in bustling villages, quiet neighbourhoods, or the vibrant hillsides of St Kitts and Nevis, this is a time to pause and cherish each other and embrace the spirit of togetherness that unites all.
Prime Minister Drew also reflected on the progress that have been made over the year. He said that the administration has worked deliberately to ease the pressures that so many families face, ensuring that homes are brighter and burdens are lighter.
This has been done through opportunities such as the Independence 40 resets which provided relief for housing, water, and electricity; first ever payment of the two CBI Dividends; 8% salary increase for Civil Servants and Pensioners; multiple bonuses to the employees; first time pensions for Government Auxiliary Employees (GAEs); 39% minimum wage increase; 37% pension payment increase; 16% increase in minimum age pension; and the relief on fuel variation charge, LPG, and fuel tax.
The Prime Minister emphasises that these steps are reflection of what happens when the work together is done together to uplift each other. “This Christmas the glow of progress is not measured by statistics or numbers but by smiles of children enjoying a warm meal, the relief of parents knowing they can provide for their families, and the joy of communities thriving together.”
In addition to this, PM Drew also highlighted that the carnival season adds another layer of celebration to this special time of the year. It is when the rhythm of the culture of St Kitts and Nevis takes centre stage, reminding of the beauty, vibrancy and joy that flows through the Federation.
He also said that he is reminded of the incredible resilience and strength that define the people of the nation. They have weathered challenges with dignity and celebrated successes with humility. It is their spirit that keeps the nation moving forward.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew encouraged all the people to celebrate responsibly and respectfully leaving uncountable memories to cherish in the future.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
